“It boosts the protection children received as babies against these diseases. Following the full course of immunisations, protection is expected to last at least 20 years against tetanus and five years against whooping cough. The vaccine is given as one injection.”

HPV immunisations at around age 12 for both boys and girls protect against nine strains of human papillomavirus responsible for cervical and some other cancers, and genital warts.

In New Zealand approximately 160 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 50 women die from it each year. HPV immunisation has been available to girls to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer since 2008, but was extended to boys and young men from January 2017.

Dr Jarman says “The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against an increasing proportion of mouth and throat cancers caused by HPV, which affect men at higher rates than women. HPV can also cause penile and anal cancers in men.

HPV protection is long-lasting, so immunisation at age 11-12 protects well into adulthood. The HPV vaccine is given as two injections, spaced out over at least six months, to those aged 14 or under. Those beginning vaccination at age 15 or older will need three doses.”

Public Health Nurse’s are currently visiting participating schools and giving children consent forms to bring home for their parents to sign for each vaccine. Parents need to fill out the forms and say whether or not they consent to the vaccine, sign the form and return it to school.

Dr Jarman adds “It is very important parents get the best possible information to make the right decision to protect their whānau.

There is a lot of social media content regarding Boostrix and HPV which some parents may find confusing, so I urge parents with queries about the vaccine to discuss them with a qualified doctor or nurse. The Ministry of Health has also published an accurate summary of the most recent international research into the safety of the vaccine and people can also contact the Immunisation Advisory Centre on 0800 IMMUNE.”